Crist Votes to Support Florida Social Service Providers, Reauthorize Community Services Block Grants

Press Release

U.S. Representative Charlie Crist (D-St. Petersburg) issued the following statement after House passage of H.R.5129, the Community Services Block Grant Modernization Act of 2022, legislation to provide states, territories, and Tribes with resources to combat poverty. The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) program is one of the main federal programs that seeks to reduce poverty.
Specifically, the bill reauthorizes CSBG for a full decade -- the longest period in the program's history -- and makes needed reforms to expand eligibility so more Americans can access services. The bill, which passed the House by a vote of 246-169, now moves to the Senate for consideration.

"In Florida, rents are rising, Medicaid still has not been expanded, and paychecks are not keeping up," said Rep. Crist. "In the face of Florida's affordability crisis, the role of community service providers is more critical than ever. These organizations fill in the gaps and provide food, medical care, and early education to lift families out of poverty and into financial stability. I'm proud to vote to modernize and reauthorize this critical program that gives back and lifts up our community!"

The designated Community Services Block Grant provider in Pinellas County is the Pinellas Opportunity Council.

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